Spiv

Produced by the Posies' Ken Stringfellow, who also contributes piano, bass, and vocals, this four-song EP showcases Spiv's multi-faceted sound. Opening with a satiric run through of rock & roll clichés in the title track, lead singer and guitarist Chris Barber is shown to possess a wit as strong as his pop-punk songwriting hooks. In what appears to be a homage to Abbey Road-era Beatles, Barber's "Beatley" employs dramatic climbing choruses surrounded by nice backup vocals to evoke a similarly whimsical quality. Approaching Paul McCartney via Elliott Smith, "Seedy Release" is a wonderfully lilting ballad with finger-picked guitar and brushed drums. A most unexpected coda, "VIP's of the Street" is a stiff yet strangely compelling rap, all delivered in seemingly tongue-in-cheek monotone. In the end, this EP does everything it should, introducing you to a band in its most interesting elements. ~ Matt Fink, All Music Guide